Assistant Vice President for Strategic Communications and Editorial Content Strategy

Duke University seeks an inspiring, innovative, and dynamic communications professional to promote, protect, and advance Duke University’s reputation, key priorities, and achievements though media relations, audience engagement, and multimedia storytelling and content. The inaugural AVP for Strategic Communications and Editorial Content Strategy will report to the Vice President for Communications, Marketing, and Public Affairs and work together with the AVPs for Communications Strategy & Operations and Marketing & Brand Strategy to form a leadership bench that drives strategy for the entire Communications, Marketing, and Public Relations unit and develops and plans public relations/media relations activities that are designed to elevate public awareness and visibility of the University (locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally).

Tracing its origins to 1838, Duke University has evolved into one of the world's leading institutions for education, research, and patient care. Located in Durham, North Carolina, in the heart of the Research Triangle, Duke is comprised of two major organizations: Duke University and Duke University Health System. Duke has been named as a best place to work by several publications and organizations, including Forbes and Newsweek, among others. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 45,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Duke’s Communications, Marketing, and Public Affairs team is dedicated to inspiring and evoking emotions within the University community and the inaugural Assistant Vice President for Strategic Communications and Editorial Strategy’s role encompasses a range of responsibilities aimed at communicating accurate and inspiring messages to both internal and external audiences. Through the identification, analysis, and management of complex issues, the AVP will develop and execute communication strategies across various channels, including leading editorial storytelling channels and engagements with external media. The AVP will oversee a team of 10-15 talented writers as well as advise over 400+ communicators across Duke's campuses.

The ideal candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, English, or a related discipline (Master’s degree preferred) and have eight years of experience in communications or a related field, with at least three years of experience in the higher education sector.

The is a full-time position, located in Durham, North Carolina. The compensation will be commensurate with experience and eligible for relocation assistance with a generous benefits package. Duke University offers a variety of extensive benefits and perks to employees of all classifications, for more details about benefits and leave, please click here: Duke University Human Resources Website.  

The review of candidates will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Nominations and applications for the Assistant Vice President for Strategic Communications and Editorial Content Strategy are welcomed as soon as possible. Applications should include a complete résumé or vitae, a letter of interest, and a list of five professional references. All application materials will be considered in full confidence. Please send all nominations, inquiries, and applications electronically to: [email protected].